WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) The Washington Nationals' competition for the fifth starter spot could run beyond opening day.

The Nationals signed eight-year veteran Jeremy Hellickson to a minor league contract over the weekend, adding him to the mix that already included A.J. Cole and Erick Fedde. He would get a $2 million, one-year deal if added to the 40-man roster and the chance to earn $4 million in performance bonuses.

"We like the rotation we have," Washington general manager Mike Rizzo said. "This just adds another layer of depth for us."